Performance of older adults on tests of cognitive estimation

This study provides performance data for older adults on two existing tests of cognitive estimation ability (Cognitive Estimation Test [CET] and Temporal Judgement Test [TJT]) and a novel set of estimation questions (n-EQ) that make reference to familiar, everyday objects. It explores the relations between each of the three tests of estimation and verbal intelligence. The sample comprises 101 adults aged 55 years and over. Neither n-EQ nor TJT scores were associated with verbal IQ, but scores on the more established CET were. As well as providing performance data for older adults, this study confirms the limitations of existing measures of cognitive estimation. It is proposed that the novel questions devised for this study show promise as an assessment tool, and warrant further validation.